By admin 
Washington, D.C. – What began as a cordial exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly escalated into a tense argument during their first official meeting since Trump returned to power last month. The encounter, which took place in the Oval Office in the presence of the global media, started with handshakes and smiles but soon turned confrontational.
The dispute ignited when U.S. Vice President JD Vance emphasized the importance of diplomacy in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which began in 2022 when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine.
“For four years, the United States had a president who talked tough about Vladimir Putin, and then Putin invaded Ukraine, causing immense destruction. The real path to peace and prosperity is through diplomacy,” Vance remarked, indirectly criticizing former U.S. President Joe Biden.
Vance continued, “We tried Biden’s approach—making bold statements without real action. What makes America a great country is its engagement in diplomacy, and that is exactly what President Trump is doing.”
At this point, Zelensky interjected, asking if he could pose a question to Vance.
“Of course,” Vance replied.
Zelensky then pointed out that Russia had occupied parts of Ukraine, including Crimea, in 2014 and that successive U.S. administrations—including those of Barack Obama, Trump, and Biden—had failed to stop Putin’s aggression.
“For years, no one stopped him. He occupied our land, killed our people. We held multiple talks, signed ceasefire agreements with Putin alongside leaders like (French President Emmanuel) Macron and (former German Chancellor Angela) Merkel, yet he still violated those agreements. What kind of diplomacy are you talking about?” Zelensky challenged.
Vance responded firmly, “I’m talking about the kind of diplomacy that will put an end to the destruction of your country.”
Zelensky attempted to reply but was quickly cut off by Vance, who criticized him for bringing such matters into a public forum.
“Mr. President, with all due respect, I find it inappropriate for you to come to the Oval Office and debate this in front of the American media. Right now, your country is struggling with manpower shortages, forcing conscripts to the front lines. You should be thanking the president,” Vance asserted.
The argument intensified as Zelensky questioned whether Vance had ever visited Ukraine to witness the situation firsthand.
“I’ve seen the reports, and I know how propaganda tours work,” Vance retorted. “Do you deny that your country is facing recruitment issues? And do you think it’s respectful to come here and criticize an administration that is trying to prevent your country’s destruction?”
Zelensky responded by saying that “every country faces challenges during wartime,” including the United States. He warned that while the U.S. may not feel the consequences now, they could in the future.
This remark provoked an immediate reaction from Trump.
“You don’t know that. Don’t tell us what we’re going to feel,” Trump said, raising his voice. “You’re in no position to dictate that to us.”
Zelensky attempted to clarify, but Trump cut him off.
“You are in a very bad position right now. You’ve allowed yourself to be in this situation,” Trump said. “You’re gambling with the lives of millions of people, and you’re risking World War III. What you’re doing is very disrespectful to this country.”
Vance then turned to Zelensky and asked, “Have you even once said ‘thank you’?”
Zelensky insisted that he had expressed gratitude multiple times, but Vance pressed him further.
“In this meeting, have you expressed appreciation for the United States and the president who is working to save your country?” Vance asked.
Zelensky began to respond, but Trump interrupted again.
“Your country is in big trouble,” Trump said. “You’re not winning this war. You have a damn good chance of coming out okay—because of us.”
Gill Bikram Singh